During his high-profile visit to India, United States Vice President JD Vance hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “tough negotiator,” stating that Modi’s firm stance on national interests has garnered significant respect in Washington. Speaking at the Rajasthan International Centre in Jaipur on April 22, Vance emphasized that this strength is precisely what makes Modi a key figure in shaping global diplomacy. His comments come amid efforts to fast-track a bilateral trade deal that could reshape the economic relationship between the two largest democracies in the world.

The visit coincides with a crucial phase in Indo-US trade relations, as India seeks to secure a deal before the 90-day pause on new US-imposed tariffs expires. President Donald Trump’s administration had earlier announced steep levies of up to 26% on Indian exports, temporarily halted to allow for negotiations. After JD Vance’s recent meeting with PM Modi in New Delhi, the White House confirmed that both nations have made “significant progress” and finalized the terms of reference for a new, modern trade agreement. This roadmap is expected to steer both sides toward a comprehensive pact addressing trade, defence, and energy cooperation.

In his address, Vance also conveyed the broader vision of a robust US-India partnership. He highlighted the need for collaboration in strategic sectors, asserting that a successful alliance could lead to a more peaceful and prosperous 21st century. “If India and the United States work together successfully, we’re going to see a century that is prosperous and peaceful,” he said. However, he warned that failure to do so could result in global instability. Meanwhile, India’s finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed hope that the first stage of the trade pact could be concluded by autumn, signaling a shared urgency to solidify the evolving alliance.